The United States is facing a sharp rise in measles infections, with 1,197 confirmed cases reported across 34 states as of June 13—more than quadruple the total number of cases recorded in all of 2024. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has responded by issuing an updated travel advisory, urging the public to ensure they are fully vaccinated, particularly ahead of international travel.
Health officials continue to stress the critical role of vaccination in curbing the outbreak, especially in protecting vulnerable populations who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical conditions or compromised immune systems.
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Measles Outbreak Expands Across the U.S.
The CDC reports confirmed cases in Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York (including both New York City and New York State), North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.
Of the 2025 cases reported to date, 793 have occurred in children and young adults under the age of 20. The CDC attributes 90% of these infections to 21 active outbreaks nationwide. At least 144 individuals have been hospitalized.
An overwhelming 95% of reported cases involve individuals who are either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.
Outbreak Epicenters and Reported Deaths
West Texas has emerged as the primary hotspot, with 744 confirmed cases as of June 10. New Mexico follows with 81 reported cases. Tragically, two unvaccinated children have died from measles in West Texas, and a third fatality—an unvaccinated adult—has been confirmed in Lea County, New Mexico.
Global Surge Adds to Domestic Concerns
The outbreak in the U.S. comes amid a troubling rise in global measles cases. A joint report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF reveals that Europe recorded over 127,000 measles cases in 2024—more than double the number reported in 2023 and the highest total since 1997. The European region, which includes 53 countries across Europe and Central Asia, also reported 38 deaths and over half of cases required hospitalization.
Worldwide, nearly 360,000 measles cases were reported in 2024, underscoring the global nature of the threat.
CDC Reinforces Vaccine Guidance for Travelers
In light of the international spread, the CDC has strengthened its travel advisory. The agency recommends that all travelers aged six months or older receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine if they lack documentation of vaccination or evidence of immunity.
“Travelers can catch measles in many travel settings including travel hubs like airports and train stations, on public transportation like airplanes and trains, at tourist attractions, and at large, crowded events,” the CDC warned.
Travelers returning to the U.S. are advised to monitor themselves for symptoms for up to three weeks.
Dr. Anne Liu, a clinical associate professor of pediatrics, immunology, and allergy at Stanford University, emphasized the seriousness of the situation: “Measles is a highly contagious disease that can turn deadly. People who are unvaccinated and people who are immunocompromised should be quite concerned about the growing footprint of this outbreak.”
Vaccination Remains the Key to Preventing Measles Spread, Experts Say
As measles cases continue to surge across the United States, health experts stress that the most effective way to stop its spread is through vaccination. The reason for measles’ rapid transmission is straightforward: it’s one of the most contagious diseases known to humanity.
“It’s unbelievably contagious. It’s the most contagious disease we’ve ever seen,” said Dr. Danelle Fisher, a pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.
Dr. Fisher explained that individuals infected with measles can transmit the virus up to four days before symptoms appear and remain contagious for a week to 10 days afterward.
Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist and professor of medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, echoed the urgent need for immunization. “Vaccination is the way to prevent measles. There are no other ways. Although it’s been discussed in the media, vitamin A does not prevent measles,” he said.
Both Fisher and Schaffner emphasized that people who are fully vaccinated or who have had a prior measles infection are well protected. “You’re not going to get sick, and you’re not going to spread it,” said Dr. Fisher.
However, the risk is significantly higher for individuals who are unvaccinated or whose immunity has diminished over time. Fisher compared the current risk to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic—before vaccines were widely available—highlighting just how vulnerable unprotected individuals are.
“If there weren’t a measles vaccine, this outbreak would likely have gone global within weeks,” she said. “Vaccination is the reason this isn’t spreading even more.”
Fisher urged parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated according to recommended schedules, and encouraged adults who are unvaccinated or uncertain about their immunization history to speak with a healthcare provider about receiving the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Vaccination does more than protect the individual—it also safeguards the broader community, especially those who cannot receive vaccines due to medical conditions or weakened immune systems.
“It’s incumbent on all of us to protect the most vulnerable in our society,” said Fisher.
Dr. Schaffner agreed, stressing the importance of “cocooning” those at risk. “There are many children and adults living among us who are immunocompromised. If they were to contract measles, they could become gravely ill,” he said. “We protect them by getting vaccinated and limiting the virus’s ability to spread.”
Additional Precautions Beyond Vaccination
While vaccination is the most effective defense, experts recommend additional precautions—particularly for unvaccinated individuals.
Dr. Fisher advised that unvaccinated people avoid all non-essential travel, especially on planes, trains, or other forms of mass transportation. She also suggested making workplace adjustments to reduce contact with others, particularly in high-risk environments such as schools and healthcare facilities.
She cautioned everyone—especially those without immunity—to be vigilant around individuals with coughs or cold-like symptoms. “Be very wary of anyone with any kind of upper respiratory illness,” Fisher warned.
Even routine activities like grocery shopping may pose a risk to the unvaccinated as the outbreak continues to grow.
“As this outbreak spreads, the areas of safety are going to get smaller and smaller,” she said.
What to Know About Measles: Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention
Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in the mid-20th century, the disease was a major public health threat in the United States. Each year, measles caused more than 3 million illnesses, resulting in approximately 48,000 hospitalizations and 500 deaths.
Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The first dose is typically administered between 12 and 15 months of age, with the second dose given between 4 and 6 years. This two-dose regimen provides long-lasting protection in most individuals.
How Measles Spreads
Measles is a highly contagious virus transmitted primarily through the air. It spreads via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces. The virus can remain airborne or on surfaces for up to two hours, making it especially easy to contract in public or crowded places.
Symptoms and Complications
Symptoms usually develop within 14 days of exposure. Common early signs include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Widespread skin rash
Roughly 30% of measles cases lead to complications, which can range from mild to severe. Common complications include:
- Ear infections
- Diarrhea
More serious, though less frequent, complications include:
- Pneumonia
- Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
- Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal degenerative brain disorder that can develop years after infection.
Lasting Effects on the Immune System
Beyond the acute illness, measles can cause long-term damage to the immune system. Dr. Anne Liu, a clinical associate professor of pediatrics and immunology at Stanford University, explains:
“One of the lesser-known features of measles is that it can wipe out part of a person’s immune memory from prior infections, leaving them vulnerable to illnesses they had previously overcome.”
This phenomenon, often referred to as “immune amnesia,” compromises the body’s ability to defend itself against other pathogens for months or even years after a measles infection.
“These are preventable illnesses,” Dr. Liu emphasized. “Many people are being hospitalized for measles because of the severity of their illness—not just for isolation.”
Public Health Message: Vaccination Is Critical
Dr. William Schaffner, professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University, reinforced the importance of public awareness and community action.
“The public should be aware of the current measles situation,” he said. “Make sure you and your family are fully vaccinated. If you have friends or family members who are hesitant, encourage them to talk to their doctor. Help them feel supported in making the decision to vaccinate. This is about protecting each other. We’re all in this together.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or close contact. It causes symptoms like high fever, cough, sore throat, and a widespread rash. Serious complications can occur, especially in young children and immunocompromised individuals.
How is measles spread?
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, making it extremely contagious. An infected person can spread the virus four days before and up to 10 days after symptoms appear.
How effective is the MMR vaccine?
Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles. One dose alone is about 93% effective. The vaccine provides long-term immunity and is the most reliable way to protect against measles.
Can adults get vaccinated for measles?
Yes. Adults who are unvaccinated or unsure of their vaccination status—especially those traveling internationally or working in healthcare or schools—should speak with a healthcare provider about getting the MMR vaccine.
What if I’ve already had measles?
If you’ve had measles before, you are generally considered immune for life. However, laboratory testing can confirm immunity if there’s any doubt.
Can measles weaken your immune system?
Yes. Measles can cause immune amnesia, erasing parts of your immune system’s memory and making you vulnerable to infections you’ve previously fought off. This effect can last for months or years.
What should I do if I think I’ve been exposed to measles?
If you’ve been exposed and are unvaccinated or immune-compromised, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You may need immune globulin or other interventions to reduce your risk of illness. Watch for symptoms over the next 21 days.
Conclusion
The current surge in measles cases across the United States and globally is a stark reminder of how quickly vaccine-preventable diseases can return when immunization rates fall. Measles is not a benign childhood illness—it is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening virus that can lead to severe complications and long-term health consequences.
Health experts are unified in their message: vaccination is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself, your family, and your community. The MMR vaccine has a proven track record of preventing outbreaks and saving lives. In addition to protecting vaccinated individuals, high community vaccination rates help shield vulnerable populations, including infants, cancer patients, and those with compromised immune systems.